Identifying Spanish Thyme or Swedish Ivy: Care for Plectranthus Varieties

Two Common Look-Alikes

The plant in the photo is either:

• Plectranthus amboinicus (Spanish Thyme, Cuban Oregano, Indian Borage) – strong herbal scent, used in cooking.
• Plectranthus madagascariensis 'Variegatus' (Swedish Ivy) – no strong scent, grown for trailing foliage.

Care for Both

• Light: Bright light; morning sun is great.
• Water: Let top inch dry; water thoroughly. Empty saucer.
• Soil: Well-draining, peat-based mix.
• Pinch tips to encourage bushiness.

Quick ID Test

Crush a leaf. Strong oregano-like aroma = Spanish Thyme. Mild/none = Swedish Ivy.